For all of us new to the call making world.
This was one of the first pots I made. I turned it this fall from an Osage log from a tree that had been down for about 1 year. After shaping the pot, I noticed a liitle movement in the wood. After a few weeks, I thought it had stabilized. I finished turning and installed the soundboard and surface. I was giving calls away for feedback and someone had to have this one. Needless to say I got it back a few days ago.
I don't think the pictures show this, but the bottom of the call is now cupped. I had read on here about cracked playing surfaces but this still surprised me.
Hopefully this helps someone to not repeat a dumb mistake.
Chris
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Osage is a very hard wood. When it "moves", seems like nothing will stop it. It happens now and then.
So how does a call maker dry or stabilize the wood ? is it something he can do at home or must ship and have it done ?
You could always try this. http://mgorrow.tripod.com/microwave.html
I've never done it, but talked to guys that have and they have had success with it.
I have had pots warp on me, it wasnt from a green pot, it was from me heating up the pot to much when I was sanding it on the lathe. When I dry wood out for any project I put it in the attic, or somewhere dry and hot and let it sit for 2 to 3 years, depending on the size of the wood. Also the size of a pot blank would take about a week to kiln dry. You need a room or oven with a tempature of 110 degrees. :icon_thumright: